The blog of the University of Edinburgh's PIR subject area

Is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Still) Fit for Purpose?

Professor Christine Bell’s opening lines were salutary. Sixty five years ago the world stood exhausted and near ruined by global conflict, while the suppressed aggression of the Cold War mounted. In this moment of brokenness, we declared our humanity. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights gave voice and vocabulary to the dignity of persons. The inaugural University of Edinburgh Ethics Forum asked if the UDHR still speaks to our needs, and for our aspirations.